Reasons Why People Are Afraid of Coming Out of the Closet

We’ve come a long way when it comes to LGBTQ advocacy and acceptance — but we still have a long way to go. Because even now, in 2016, not all members of the LGBTQ community feel that they have found a place where they feel protected and supported. Allies need to realize that they have the power to do this by standing up against the homophobia and transphobia that cause so many people to be afraid of living their lives as their authentic selves.

Safe spaces are targets of terrorism, and journalists out closeted athletes for the sake of good clickbait. It’s no surprise that even now, in a seemingly progressive age, members of the LGBTQ community fear what may happen if they come out. Because 85% of LGBTQ students are victims to verbal harassment on campus, and LGBTQ youth are four times as likely to attempt suicide than their straight peers. In case you weren't sure, yes, homophobia and transphobia still exist.